The introduction of paid parking in Tashkent continues to spark debate. Jahongir Toshpo‘latov, general manager of StreetPark Systems operating under the Poytaxt Parking brand, gave an in-depth interview to Gazeta, revealing the project's financial details and operational challenges.

Toshpo‘latov emphasized that the project is not a private enterprise but a city-owned initiative, with StreetPark Systems acting as the technical operator. Since early 2025, over $6.5 million has been invested in equipment, road infrastructure, signage, asphalt, and app development.

In 2025, the company reported revenue of 10.8 billion soums (approx. $870,000) while losses exceeded 60 billion soums (approx. $4.8 million). Over 35 billion soums have been transferred to the state budget. The company also makes payments to the city budget and the Road Development Fund.

The initial auction saw rental rates rise from 57 billion soums to 120.1 billion soums annually, but StreetPark Systems withdrew. Balcom.uz won but failed to sign a contract. A second auction resulted in a final bid of 62.9 billion soums. However, due to a reduction in parking spaces from 13,000 to 5,300, the rent was proportionally lowered to 32.8 billion soums.

Toshpo‘latov clarified that fines are set and collected by the city administration and traffic safety service, with funds going to the state budget. A grace period allowing payment within 24 hours is being developed.

The hiring of hearing-impaired individuals as inspectors drew criticism. The company defended the move as social responsibility: 60 such inspectors are now employed, with 90-95% experiencing their first formal job. Previously, many worked informally as loaders or parking attendants.

The manager argued that paid parking is essential to reduce central city traffic congestion and ensure fair use of limited resources. He noted ongoing efforts by city authorities to develop public transport as an alternative to private cars.

Source: www.gazeta.uz